Irene Lopez Sanchez is a PhD student at the Centre for American Studies at the University of Kent. We caught up with Irene to find out more about her research and time at Kent.<\/p>\n
Can you describe your research project?<\/strong><\/p>\n My research project is an interdisciplinary approach to the idea of happiness in Emily Dickinson\u2019s writings. Using a comparative method, my study examines the radical transformation of the classical idea of eudaimonia<\/em> (a life well lived) into nineteenth-century idea of happiness and the ways in which Dickinson\u2019s views challenged the latter.<\/p>\n What aspects of research do you find most rewarding?<\/strong><\/p>\n I\u2019m a second year PhD student and what I find most rewarding is how, little by little, an abstract idea in your head (in other words, the first proposal that I submitted) starts taking shape and becoming concrete as your research progresses.<\/p>\n Are there any particular highlights of your PhD studies so far?<\/strong><\/p>\n Although challenging, it is a great experience to pursue this PhD and to have the opportunity to work in something that I am passionate about.<\/p>\n How have you found the supervision process?<\/strong><\/p>\n I find the supervision process excellent. I have regular meetings with my supervisors, and they have already proven to be extremely helpful and supportive.<\/p>\n How would you describe your research community at Kent?<\/strong><\/p>\n My research community at Kent is a key element in my studies. We are an interdisciplinary community and we help each other in multiple ways. I believe that whatever problem I might face during my research, there always be a person able to help me.<\/p>\n What other support do you receive as a research student?<\/strong><\/p>\n I receive support from my Liaison Librarian at Templeman Library and from The ECCLES Centre for American Studies at the British Library.<\/p>\n How have you funded your studies?<\/strong><\/p>\n I was awarded with the Vice Chancellor\u2019s Research Scholarship for International Students.<\/p>\n What are your plans for a future career?<\/strong><\/p>\n After I finish my PhD, I would like to be professor in the field of Humanities at a university or college.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"